Need unique ideas for a wedding ceremony, something that will make it interesting but not cheesy?

Question

We are doing the unity candle lighting with our mothers, but I would like to add something else to the ceremony to make it nice without being cheesy. My fiance is against having a soloist, and I don't really want to have anyone read a poem. Any other thoughts on something that would break up the ceremony that would be cool? I have also heard of the rose passing thing, not really interested in that either. Thanks!

Answer 1

A wedding is a special ceremony, not a form of entertainment. I understand not wanting people to get bored, but the easiest way to remedy that is to shorten the ceremony, not lengthen it.
But, if you're really intent on doing something else, I'd recommend researching your ancestry and then finding some traditions from your heritage to incorporate into the wedding. Or, ask your mom or grandmother or mother-in-law if they used any traditions in their wedding which they would like to see passed on. They may have some interesting ideas which you wouldn't have even thought of!
Good luck!

Answer 2

There are a few other unification ceremonies, sand, unity bouquet, wine, salt, hand, lasso, handfasting, communion. But you are already using the unity candle. Some ministers don't even allow that as they think it takes away from the vows & ring exchange.

Rather then a soloist, you could have a musical piece played on a flute, guitar or violin.
You really don't need a lot of bells & whistles. With all the decorations & color decisions & flowers, the thing that people will remember the most are the words. See, words mean things. They will remember what the officiant says about marriage. They will remember the words you use to pledge your love. What do you want to say to your guests? To each other & to God about your marriage? What does marriage meant to you? Why are you getting married?
Experience tells me that the couples that spend a few extra minutes on the "do you take" part never feel their time was misspent.

Answer 3

How about putting up a maypole? The attendees (or just the children, if you want to use a shorter maypole) each hold the end of a colorful ribbons tied to the top, and dance in a weaving pattern around the pole, creating a thick, colorful braid around it. It symbolizes the bonding of the couple and the way the whole community of friends and family is a part of the strength of the marriage. It's also a very pretty dance to see, and the couple can keep the maypole for years and add layers at special occasions. It becomes a really nice tradition at family parties. Congratulations!

Answer 4

If you're looking for something to make the ceremony nice without being cheesy, I'd suggest doing some alternate music. You might consider finding a harpist to play music while people are being seated - that always lends a sophisticated air to the event.

As far as something "cool" to break up the event, you could always assemble about 4 or 5 flower girls. That would sure spruce things up right before your entrance! Everyone loves to see children having fun, let them have a ton of rose petals and you'll be amazed at the outcome.

I'm like the others, I wouldn't add more to it - I'd take away from it. I'm telling you now, that song is going to seem like it takes FOREVER to get thru - I'd suggest keeping it to one verse.

Use your reception to create the most drama - it's the last place people are at and will have the longest-lasting impression. Keep the ceremony short, simple and classy. You'll be appreciated beyond your belief! (plus, bride and groom will be happy it was short, too! trust me!)

congrats & good luck!

Answer 5

How many weddings have you sat through where the service has dragged on and on forever. Guests get bored, anything longer than 1 hour is too much, there is plenty going on already, the vows are the most important part, and people forget what they are there for if there are loads of extra bits added. It's better to stick with what you have, and let your guests have a glass of champagne sooner rather than later. Your ceremony already sounds like it has more than enough entertainment.

Answer 6

Have you considered a "blending ceremony" with crushed glass or sand? Or maybe, if you are computer savy and have some time, you could create a powerpoint slideshow with pictures of the two of you growing up and current pictures. With a slideshow, you can add music and make it like a mini-film. Most DJ's rent out the projector to use with your PC for around $100-150.
Most slideshows are entertaining at a wedding, and break up the formality of the event.
Good Luck to you and congratulations!

Answer 7

WNK has it right on. You don't need to do lots of gimmicky (or cheesy as you said) things to entertain your guests. I think the 2 things you have planned are more than enough. Any more than that, and it's going to get really tedious to watch. Keep it short, but meaningful to the two of you, then on to the really fun part!